Mission

We promote environmental conservation with sustainable benefits for the whole community throughout Sumatra.

Our Story

Founded in 2000, Yayasan Ekosistem Lestari (YEL, Foundation for Sustainable Ecosystem) is a non-profit organisation focused on environmental issues and support in community development, especially those living adjacent to conservation areas.

Orangutan Conservation

The Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme (SOCP) a collaborative to increase the survivability of the Sumatran orangutan through activities focusing mainly in confiscation, quarantine, socialization and reintroduction of orangutan previously held illegally as pet.

Environmental Education

YEL’s Education Division particularly targets communities living around conservation areas through its Outreach and Education Mobile Unit Programme and through an environmental education facility, the Environmental Education Centre Bohorok, in Bukit Lawang, North Sumatra.

What's at stake

Rainforests like the Leuser Ecosystem are one of the most important natural resources left on Earth. They store billions of tons of carbon. The unique Leuser Ecosystem is home to thousands of animals that depend on the protection of their habitat for their survival. In fact, Leuser is the last place on earth were the four big mammals of orangutans, tigers, rhinos and elephants still live together. A balanced Leuser Ecosystem is however also of utmost importance to the local communities, since millions of people depend on its rivers to provide fresh water and the irrigation essential for farming.

Get Involved

Whether you spread the word, stay informed about our projects or decide to make a donation – every contribution matters.

Act

Let the world know that the Leuser Ecosystem and its Critically Endangered Sumatran orangutans need its help. Share our message!

Connect

You can easily get involved by joining our online community. Connect with us on social media. Spread the word.

Donate

We can only run our projects with the support of generous donors. Already a few dollars can make a significant impact. Donate Now!

To keep going, we need your support!

Please consider donating to our organization or specifically to one of our projects.